Increased Power for Musk's Starlink Raises Concerns
The US Federal Communications Commission has approved higher power levels for Elon Musk's SpaceX Starlink service, despite objections from rival companies AT&T and Verizon. The decision allows Starlink to operate a direct-to-cell service with T-Mobile at higher power levels, which could result in harmful interference and impact their service in some areas. The FCC has set conditions to protect terrestrial wireless carrier operations.
- The approval of higher power levels for Starlink could be seen as a significant shift in the regulatory environment, enabling more efficient use of spectrum resources while also potentially increasing competition among wireless carriers.
- How will the increased power levels affect the overall digital divide in rural areas, where remote locations are often without access to reliable internet connectivity?